Name: One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cubed); 2 teaspoons dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 shallots (minced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup orzo pasta; 3 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 2 cups baby spinach (chopped); shredded parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty dish like One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo. It’s one of those meals that can take you back to cherished family gatherings, where the aroma of tender chicken mingles with fragrant herbs and zesty lemon. One lazy Sunday afternoon, while pondering what to cook for the week, I stumbled upon the idea of combining my favorite ingredients into a simple, yet flavorful one-pan dish. This recipe quickly became a staple in my household, offering a delightful balance of textures and tastes that never fails to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
34 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Skillet

What Makes This One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo Special

Convenience of One-Pan Cooking

One of the main reasons I adore One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo is its simplicity. Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup and more time spent enjoying your meal. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Flavor Explosion

The combination of chicken, orzo, and fresh herbs creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. The bright zing of lemon juice and zest adds a refreshing touch, perfectly complementing the savory notes of the herbs. It’s a dish that can easily elevate your weeknight dinner to something special.

Healthy and Wholesome

Everyone appreciates a meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome. This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and a variety of nutrients from the spinach and shallots. You can feel good about serving it to your family, knowing that it not only tastes fantastic but also nourishes their bodies.

Customizable Ingredients

I love how versatile the ingredients in One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo are. You can easily swap out the spinach for other greens or even add in seasonal vegetables. This adaptability means you can enjoy it year-round, making it a go-to recipe in any season.

Perfect for Leftovers

Leftovers? Yes, please! This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunch the next day. Simply pack it up and enjoy a hearty meal that tastes just as good, if not better, after a night in the fridge.

Recipe Ingredients for One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

The ingredients in One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo blend together to create a comforting and delicious meal. Each component plays a crucial role, from the chicken that serves as the hearty base to the orzo that soaks up all the flavors. The herbs bring aromatic notes that elevate the dish, while lemon adds a touch of brightness, making it perfect for any occasion.

1 ½ pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed – The main protein source that provides a satisfying bite.
2 teaspoons dried basil – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Enhances the overall taste with its earthy notes.
1 teaspoon paprika – Gives a hint of smokiness and vibrant color.
1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors of all ingredients.
½ teaspoon pepper – Adds a bit of heat and depth.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the chicken and adding richness.
1 tablespoon butter – Adds creaminess and flavor to the sautéed vegetables.
2 shallots, minced – Provides a sweet, delicate onion flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with a robust aroma.
1 cup orzo pasta – This rice-shaped pasta absorbs flavors wonderfully.
3 cups chicken broth – The flavorful cooking liquid that brings everything together.
2 tablespoons lemon juice – Brightens the dish with a tangy kick.
2 teaspoons lemon zest – Enhances the lemon flavor with its fragrant oils.
2 cups baby spinach, chopped – Adds color and nutrition.
shredded parmesan cheese – A delightful finishing touch that adds creaminess and flavor.

Cooking Instructions for One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

Cooking One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious meal. Remember, taking your time to notice the colors and textures will lead to the best results.

Start by cubing 1 ½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken breast into about 1 ½ to 2-inch pieces. This size ensures even cooking and a satisfying bite. Once cubed, season the chicken evenly with 2 teaspoons of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the chicken is mostly cooked through, turning occasionally to achieve a golden-brown color. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter, 2 minced shallots, and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the shallots are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds a flavor base that will enhance the entire dish.
Next, add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir continuously for a few minutes until the orzo is evenly toasted and turns a light golden brown. This process infuses the pasta with a nutty flavor.
Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons of lemon zest. Stir to combine, and reduce the heat to medium. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the skillet.
Once the orzo is cooked through and tender, return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with 2 cups of chopped baby spinach. Stir well, allowing the spinach to wilt and the chicken to heat through completely. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Finally, garnish your dish with lemon slices and a sprinkle of shredded parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature Check: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Orzo Cooking: Keep an eye on the orzo while cooking; you can add more broth or water if it looks dry.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs when possible for the best flavor.
Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prepping; just store it in airtight containers.

Recipe Notes about One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

This recipe is straightforward but here are a few tips for making it even better. Understanding these little details can elevate your cooking skills and enhance the flavors.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the wonderful flavors.
Garnish: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley for an added burst of flavor when serving.
Variations: Feel free to incorporate other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Accompaniments for One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

When it comes to serving One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo, you have plenty of delicious options to enhance your meal. Here are some great ideas:

Side Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the savory chicken broth.
Vegetable Medley: Roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables make a great addition to your plate.
Occasion: This dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
Storage Tips: Leftovers store well and can be enjoyed as a quick lunch or dinner on busy days.

FAQ

Absolutely! While orzo is a fantastic choice for One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the type of pasta you choose. Ensure to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly to achieve the right consistency.

One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo is very kid-friendly! The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it appealing to children. If your family enjoys chicken and pasta, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, you can involve your kids in the cooking process, making it a fun family activity. They can help with stirring and adding ingredients, which might encourage them to try the final dish.

To make One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo even healthier, consider using whole wheat orzo instead of regular orzo. You can also add more vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for additional nutrients. Reducing the amount of butter or cheese can also help lower the calorie count while still keeping the dish flavorful. Always feel free to adjust the recipe based on your dietary preferences.

Yes, One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the dish in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when needed. It also freezes well, so if you make a large batch, portion it out and store it in freezer-safe containers. Just make sure to let it cool down before freezing to maintain the best texture. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave for optimal results.

Conclusion

In summary, One Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo is a delightful recipe that brings together tender chicken, zesty lemon, and comforting orzo in a way that is both simple and delicious. I encourage you to try this dish, as it’s not only flavorful but also makes for an easy cleanup. It’s a meal that your family will love, and you’ll feel great serving it. Happy cooking!